After this winter’s spontaneous cold fronts, we can finally say spring is in the air. It’s time to get off the couch and enjoy Austin’s great outdoors. But this spring, consider combining your outside time with doing a few good deeds.
Many nonprofits in Austin are calling on you to make a change, so if you’ve been wanting to volunteer but haven’t had room in between the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Austin’s got plenty of fun outdoor events – including bike rides, relays, and paddleboarding – that raise money for good causes. Consider it a two-for-one deal. So grab some sunscreen and invite your friends to these fun and charitable events.
Relay For Life of East Austin
Come down to support survivors of cancer and their caregivers. Participants will walk the Huston-Tillotson track to symbolize the fight against cancer with team activities between laps, followed by a Luminara to honor those lost to the disease. The money raised helps provide services such as free rides to chemo appointments and a 24/7 helpline.
Fri., April 26, 7pm-midnight. Huston-Tillotson University.
2019 BP MS 150
If you’re up to the challenge of a 140-170 mile bike ride, then join these cyclists as they raise money for the National MS Society, the largest private funder for multiple sclerosis research in the world. This multi-day bike trek starts in Houston, ends in Austin, and makes a difference for those living with MS.
Sat.-Sun., April 27-28. Houston, TX.
Hill Country Ride for AIDS
If you want a shorter ride for an equally good cause, consider joining the HCRA – voted “Best Ride” in Austin for two consecutive years. The scenic bike ride through Hill Country raises much needed funds for local nonprofits that provide services and support to Central Texans living with HIV/AIDS. Athletic skill not needed; participants are free to choose the distance and route that works best for them. Not down for riding, but still want to help? Volunteer opportunities are available too.
Sat., April 27, 7:30am-5:30pm. Krause Springs.
TYLER’S Dam That Cancer
Now celebrating its 10th year of fundraising, this event invites volunteers to participate in a 21-mile stand-up paddle across the beautiful Lake Austin. Afterwards, stick around for a party filled with raffles, music, food, and more. All proceeds go to Flatwater Foundation, a local nonprofit working to provide mental health services for individuals affected by cancer.
Mon., June 10. LCRA Redbud Center, 3601 Lake Austin Blvd. Austin, Texas 78703.
Juneteenth 2K Run/Walk
This fun run, or walk, event is part of Austin’s Juneteenth events – a commemoration of slavey being abolished in Texas in 1865, when the announcement finally reached the Lone Star State. So put your walking shoes on for a short fundraiser lap benefiting the Greater East Austin Youth Association, a volunteer organization providing organized sports activities for the Eastside’s economically disadvantaged children. And make sure to stick around for the Juneteenth Parade afterwards.
Sat., June 15, 8:30am. Comal & MLK.
This article appears in April 19 • 2019.